Jack Welch, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and respected member of the community, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2023, in Water Valley, Mississippi, at the age of 84. He was born August 8, 1939, in Paris, MS to the late Viola Anderson (Ottis) and Keno Welch. Jack's journey through life was filled with determination, resilience, and a passion for life.
Jack's story began as a young man who knew the value of hard work and service. After school, he served our nation eight years in the Army National Guard, an experience that not only shaped his character but also introduced him to the love of his life, Patricia Welch. Together, they built a beautiful life, supporting and cherishing one another through the highs and lows.
After his service, Jack embarked on a fulfilling career at Georgia Pacific, where he would spend many years honing his skills in industrial maintenance. He proved himself to be a dedicated and skilled electrician, earning the admiration and respect of his colleagues.
Jack's commitment and expertise as an industrial electrician were evident in every project he took on. He had a keen eye for detail, always ensuring that the machinery and systems he worked on were safe and efficient. His dedication to his craft spoke volumes about his work ethic and professionalism. This knowledge later had him branching out into residential work. After thirty-five years, Jack retired from Georgia Pacific, but that didn't last long. Time would find him doing odd and end jobs until he found a new home at Valley Tool where he would work until his health failed.
Beyond his career, Jack cherished his family above all else. He was a loving and devoted husband to Pat, and their bond was a shining example of a strong partnership. He took much joy in being a grandfather and great-grandfather cheering on all of their activities. He also loved coaching baseball and rooting for the Ole Miss Rebels. Jack was also a member of the Water Valley Church of Christ.
While his passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, Jack's legacy will forever resonate. He will be remembered for his compassion, his sense of humor, and his unwavering dedication to his loved ones. His zest for life was infectious, and he never failed to bring joy to those around him. Jack Welch will be remembered as a kind-hearted, hardworking, and dedicated individual who touched the lives of many.
A Funeral Service in celebration of Jack's life will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 2:00 pm at the Henry Chapel of Seven Oaks Funeral Home. Prior to the service, friends and family are invited to pay their respects and share memories during the visitation on Friday evening, September 22, 2023, starting at 4:30 pm in the Gardiner Room.
Jack is survived by his wife, and soul mate, of sixty-three years, Pat Welch; two sons, Scott (Lori) Welch of Pontotoc, and Jeff (Denise) Welch of Water Valley; twelve grandchildren, Dustin (Nikki) Welch, Josh Welch, Joy Welch (Jake Moorhead), Savanna Welch (Justin Morris), Eric (Sabrina) Welch, Addey (Brady) Dickey, Luke (Bailey) Littlejohn, Jacob Welch, Chastity (Scott) Heath, Tyler Barton, Andy Hood, and Eric (Jareba) Schmitz; twelve great-grandchildren, Hannah and Will Welch, Lylie and Easton Welch, Raelyn, Mabry Jane, Joe Banks Dickey, Kaden and Raegan Schmitz, Madison Welch, Colton Barton, and Gage Heath; as well as one daughter-in-law, Anita Tidwell.
In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by one son, Billy Jack Welch.